Headie One and Drake ‘Only you Freestyle’ Review
Image via Complex UK
Leading Black British drill rapper, Headie One recruits Drake for his latest ‘Only You Freestyle’ under Relentless Records. The unexpected collaboration see’s the legendary Hip Hop rapper jump on a drill beat, produced by M1 On The Beats, which he is no longer a stranger too. From expanding his language skills to Arabic, dropping well-thought out lyricism and metaphors to a viciously and head-nodding beat, OVO founder broadcasts’ his versatility, and solidifies his position further as one of the greats.
It is no secret, Drake is appreciative and majorly embraces the British culture. Throughout his career, the Canadian rapper has continuously supported Black British talents - whether that’s upcoming artists, producers, the UK street style, and most evidently, our language. Broadcasting this devotion and respect to an often neglected but leading community in the music industry, he begins his verse in the most dynamic, but attentive manner.
‘Chubs might jam this yute for chain, and give it to a sweet one, called that Maya Jama’. As many are aware, Jama is a well-established social media personality and presenter, with a dual heritage of Somali and Swedish. Nonetheless, the rapper expands his lyricism skills, smartly referencing Headie One (Four in the cliz and one in the headie), American rapper Desiigner with ‘Closet filled up with designer, comin' like Panda, Panda’ and reassures the listeners, he is not one to play with, when it comes to being musically skilled and highly honoured.
Now, it’s time to get into Headie One’s explosive verse.
Taking on one of the world’s heavyweight rappers, the Drill artist holds his own without a struggle in sight. Headie One introduces his yet favoured and extremely distinguished ad-libs - unintentionally hyping the listeners for his arrival, and what is bound to be a fire verse. The North London rapper takes us on ride through his many popular football references, play-on words, and skilful usage of slang words. Throughout his highly-anticipated verse, he is seen hinting at his luxury lifestyle, evidently grateful for the current success of his musical journey. That goes to say, he still often reflects on the struggles coming up. ‘Have you ever had your pockets empty?’ and ‘Coming for the jungle, you know where the zoo is’ - two lines which gives listeners an insight on the extent of his previous lifestyle, also forcing one to think back and wonder if their struggles align with the Drill artists.
Headie One uses this freestyle as an opportunity to get close and personal with his fans. Despite the references and lines regarding his life experiences - he doesn't stop there. Growing up in a Broadwater Farm housing estate, based in Tottenham, it is possible the rapper has seen and experienced many trials and tribulations. Exploring these sentiments, Headie states ‘I still get one jail call from Boogie, Judge gave him twenty years straight, it moved me’.
Effortlessly riding this beat, the promiment drill artist exposes’ himself as one of the many rappers that can go head-to-head with the big leagues. He often combines the many inspirations from his current and past situations, hints at a life many yearn to experience in their lifetime, with cheeky references - leaving one to only admire his ability to create such bold artistry.
